January 11, 2014

Manila, the 4th most preferred city for surveys in Asia Pacific – ULI and PwC report

Manila, Philippines is the 4th most preferred city for real estate investors in Asia Pacific.


A new survey by the Urban Land Institute (ULI) and PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) showed real estate  in the capital region is one of the “best bets” for investors to get into this year.
Manila (Photo by Myrns Roman )
The ULI and PwC report, called “Emerging Trends in Real Estate Asia Pacific 2014,” Manila ranked fourth out of 23 city clusters in Asia and the Pacific in terms of investment prospects.

John Fitzgerald, chief executive for Asia Pacific at ULI, said “The Philippines is a big mover in terms of sentiment this year, drawing a lot of mention in our surveys for the report and emerging as one of the most preferred among all emerging economies this year.”

Stated at the report, there was “an ongoing willingness to look at emerging markets, Indonesia and the Philippines in particular, as alternatives to other more traditionally favored markets.”

The 'Favored markets', Tokyo topped the list, followed by Shanghai and Jakarta. Sydney rounded out the Top 5. Hong Kong ranked 18th, Ho Chi Minh City at 19th, Bangalore at 20th, New Delhi at 21st, Chennai at 22nd, and Mumbai at 23rd.

For Manila, this ranking is a record eight-notch leap from its 2013 spot.

The ranking under the Emerging Trends City Investment Prospects are as follows:

Tokyo
Shanghai
Jakarta
Manila
Sydney
Guangzhou
Singapore
Beijing
Osaka
Shenzhen
Bangkok
China's secondary cities
Melbourne
Kuala Lumpur
Seoul
Taipei
Auckland
Hong Kong
Ho Chi Minh
Bangalore
New Delhi
Chennai
Mumbai

The report tagged Manila as one of the respondents' “best bet,” putting a “top buy” tag for the residential, office and retail segments.



Padilla Movie : Sa Ngalan ng Ama, Ina, at mga Anak ("In the Name of the Father, Mother, and Children")

Sa Ngalan ng Ama, Ina, at mga Anak ("In the Name of the Father, Mother, and Children") is an upcoming Philippine action film featuring the Padilla family.
This is originally title “Kuratong Baleleng.” "Sa Ngalan ng Ama, Ina, at mga Anak," which is inspired by the organized crime syndicate Kuratong Baleleng, marks the team-up of several Padilla actors in one film, including Kylie, Bela, Matt, and RJ.
Rommel and Daniel Padilla
Daniel Padilla is switching genres in "Sa Ngalan ng Ama, Ina, at mga Anak," his first co-starring project with his uncle, action star Robin Padilla.


Robin's wife, actress-host Mariel Rodriguez, is also part of the film.


Here’s the Cast of "Sa Ngalan ng Ama, Ina, at mga Anak" :

Robin Padilla as Ongkoy
Mariel Rodriguez-Padilla as Indah
Daniel Padilla as Nato
Kylie Padilla as Anna
Bela Padilla as Damian
Mathew Padilla as Aldong
RJ Padilla as Ardut
Rommel Padilla
Queenie Padilla
Royette Padilla

The ABS-CBN film arm is co-producing the action flick with the Padilla's RCP Productions.

The film started production in 2013 and was shortlisted as a potential entry to the MMFF, but ultimately failed to earn a slot.


"Sa Ngalan ng Ama, Ina, at mga Anak" is scheduled to hit theaters nationwide on January 29.

Photo: Enjoying Wonderful World Facebook during the blog conference held at 14 Four Cafe, Taytay, Rizal last January 9, 2014. 

More info and updates will be posted soon. 

5th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition 2014

Philippine Pyromusical Competition 2014









The 5th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition this year on February 15, 2014 to March 22, 2014 at the SM Mall of Asia.

The World Pyro Olympics is an annual competition among fireworks manufacturers held in the Philippines which runs for five days. Two countries fire each day, the last participant fires on the final evening of the event.

Aside from the international fireworks experts, you will get to see how our own country continues to improve the technology of pyrotechnics through the years.

The Philippine International Pyromusical Competition will be imbued with the awesome fanfare and delightful displays of the world’s leading pyrotechnic events. Watch the skies come alive as award-winning pyrotechnicians from different parts of the world light up the sky with breathtaking displays of fireworks mastery. Jubilee Fireworks from UK won the gold medal with their wonderful fireworks display last year's competition. 

Here's the schedule:

February 15, 2014

Philippines (Platinum Fireworks, Inc) – Opening exhibition
Australia (Howard and Sons Fireworks)

February 22, 2014

Spain (Brunchu Pyro Experience)
United Kingdom (Jubilee Fireworks)

March 1, 2014

France (Brezac Artifices)
Japan (Tamaya Kitahara)


March 8, 2014

China (Liuyang New Year Fireworks)
Germany (Vulcan Europe)


March 15, 2014

Finland (Oy Pyroman Finland Ltd)
Canada (Royal Pyrotechnie)

March 22, 2014

USA (Atlas Pyro Vision)
Philippines (Platinum Fireworks Inc)

Catch The 5th Philippine International PyroMusical Competition every Saturday starting February 15, 2014 to March 22, 2014 only at the SM Mall of Asia.

Buy your tickets now and enjoy the wonderful world of the 5th Philippine International Pyromusical Competition!

Newest sitcom “Home Sweetie Home” Makes Impressive Debut, Ranks #1

The Kapamilya network’s newest sitcom “Home Sweetie Home” made strong first impressions upon the airing of its pilot episode last Sunday (January 5), topping the rating charts and ranking number one nationwide.

According to data from Kantar Media, “Home Sweetie Home” raked in 19.9% in TV ratings, making it the most watched TV program among last Sunday’s shows in both urban and rural areas. Feedback from viewers via social media also proved the show was a hit, with many becoming instant fans of the John Lloyd Cruz-Toni Gonzaga tandem.

This coming Sunday (January 12), catch another light and romantic episode and find out how Romeo (John Lloyd Cruz) and Julie (Toni Gonzaga) ended up with each other—from obstacles the two faced as a couple leading up to a kind of marriage that is uniquely their own.

Find out how their love story played out in the next episode of “Home Sweetie Home,” airing Sundays after the kiddie gag show “Goin’ Bulilit”.

Meanwhile, the fun goes even further with the Banana Split gang on two other Kapamilya comedy shows this 2014, as “Banana Split: Extra Scoop” lets the laughter start early on Saturday nights after“Maalaala Mo Kaya” and “Banana Nite” makes weekday nights tons lighter with all-new special guests and even more hilarious gags and sketches.

Watch out for a special episode of the “Banana Nite” segment in the coming week featuring Jayson "Tito Vhoy" Gainza as he goes face to face with a showbiz personality that he has gained a reputation for impersonating, the King of Talk Boy Abunda.

Catch “Banana Split: Extra Scoop” on Saturday nights after “Maalaala Mo Kaya” and “Banana Nite” from Monday to Friday after “Bandila”.

January 10, 2014

Japanese singer AISAKU in love with Filipino Culure, Humor, Family Ties and OPM!

AISAKU is a pure Japanese who sings Tagalog and Japanese oldies and favorites with a taste of Jazz. Honed to be the next Ted Ito, Aisaku performs with a Filipino twist of Tagalog oldies and favorites.

Recently released his own rendition of the 90s classic pop ballad, Ted Ito's Diamond Hit record “Ikaw Pa Rin.” The choice is not merely because it's of Japanese origin. But ironically due to his high regard for OPM, with him even counting Gary Valenciano as his main musical influence.

AISAKU 
“I know more OPM than Japanese songs now. I have more Filipino friends than Japanese friends on Facebook. And I guess I am a Filipino by heart even though my pair of eyes makes me look like I'm asleep,” Aisaku said.

His name interestingly meaning “make love,” Aisaku recently put out his self-titled debut album of OPM classic covers led by “Ikaw Pa Rin,” (popularized by Ted Ito and originally “Saigo No Iwake” in Japanese). His cover of the song won “Best OPM Cover” at the 2013 Gawad Musika Awards & Consumers Quality Awards.

The album package is produced by Janette Ito of Japan's i&i Records in tie-up with Japan Home Centre and distributed by Universal Records Philippines.

Born from a Christian family, this pure Japanese moved to the Philippines years back and the long stretch made him a Pinoy by heart. He takes pride that his knowledge in the Filipino culture and language is almost on a native level. 

He shared, "Modern OPM music is something I really love. I give credit to OPM artists who bring the genre to a new level of classy music, like my current favorites Noel Cabangon, Sitti, Gloc-9, JayR, Ogie Alcasid, and a whole lot more!" 

He confirmed his utmost respect for Mr. Pure Energy, "My most favorite singer is Gary Valenciano. I live in a church so I had the chance to learn good music first from Gary V's songs. His music covers a lot of genre from pop, dance, soul, jazz to ballads. The first live concert I ever watched in my life was his as well." 

Aisaku actually is a combination of two separate words: "AI" which is another word for love, and "Saku" meaning "to make". His parents want him to be "a person who can spread love to the world."

IKAW PA RIN - AISAKU (Official Music Video)

This Japanese trying his best to sing in smooth Tagalog appeared on Lucky Me’s KARI & PO-KU advert. He also endorsed Platinum Karaoke, with his songs already available on the karaoke itself and iTunes. As a child he had speech impairment. Then he met a speech therapist from Operation Smile who helped him with his condition. He is now one of its ambassadors. 

Other songs in Aisaku's album are “Remember Me” (popularized by Renz Verano), “Honey My Love So Sweet” (popularized by April Boyz), “Isang Tanong Isang Sagot” (Popularized by Donna Cruz), “Isang Mundo, Isang Awit” (popularized by Leah Navarro), and other Tagalog songs of Japanese roots.

Vocal about his love for Filipinos. He explained, “I find the Filipinos more fun to be with, and the country itself as well. I love the Filipino humor, the culture, and the best of all, the close family ties. I love my parents and I am glad that I know how to show my love to them like a Filipino son can do.”

With his talent and charm, Aisaku already bagged a number of awards, including the 2013 Asian Star Entertainer Awards for Best New Male OPM Artist. He will host and perform at the Little Tokyo Sunday Festival in Makati (Pasong Tamo near Makati Cinema Square) on November 24, 6 pm.

Google Best Apps of 2013 Winner “whoscall” Released on LINE

LINE whoscall, a free call-filtering and number management app for Android.

Google Best Apps of 2013 Winner “whoscall” Released on LINE Access a Worldwide Database of Over 600 Million Phone Numbers to Identify Unknown Numbers in Real Time and Protect Against Malicious Sources

LINE, the world’s leading mobile platform with 320 million users worldwide, today announced the release of LINE whoscall, a free call-filtering and number management app for Android developed by Gogolook Co., Ltd., a world leading caller ID service company.




























LINE whoscall for Android devices will allow users to identify the source of incoming numbers and filter out unwanted calls and messages. The app is a reworked interface for LINE users based on whoscall, which has been downloaded more than 5 million times worldwide, and was selected for the Google Best Innovation Award of 2013 in eight regions, including Taiwan, Hong Kong, Indonesia, and Malaysia.

LINE whoscall utilizes a database of over 600 million numbers, including businesses and shops, sourced from the Yellow Pages and other public data resources to automatically identify and display the source of incoming calls and messages as they arrive. This allows users to filter out suspicious numbers before they answer a call or message.

Important Notes

1. Contacts found on mobile devices will not be automatically collected by the LINE whoscall service.

2. The app will not include a feature that offers LINE account authentication on its release. For this reason, messages and calls received inside the LINE app will not be affected by the filtering settings made with LINE whoscall.

LINE whoscall Supported devices: Android
Supported languages: English, Chinese (Simplified and Traditional), Korean, Japanese
Supported regions: Global
Service begins: January 9, 2014
Cost: Free

For more information, please visit http://whoscall.com

About LINE
LINE, the world's hottest mobile messaging platform, offers free text and voice messaging, voice calling and group chat with up to 100 people, integrated with various interactive elements such as Stickers, Home & Timeline and Official Accounts. Since its release in June 2011, the cross-platform mobile messenger has been releasing a series of add-on apps that range from games to an anti-virus app. Today, LINE has become a hot cultural icon with 320 million users in 230 countries. LINE has also held the coveted No. 1 spot in the 'free apps' category of app stores in 60 countries. For more information visit: http://line.naver.jp/en/.

About LINE PLUS Corporation
LINE PLUS Corporation, the world's leading mobile platform innovator, is a joint-venture entity between Naver Corporation (former NHN Corporation) and LINE Corporation (former NHN Japan Corporation), newly organized in March 2013. As a global smartphone life platform provider, LINE PLUS services LINE and its family applications to bring together an innovative mobile messaging tool and new communication lifestyle. LINE PLUS Corporation was created to promptly react to the ever-changing mobile messenger market and to strengthen its global business based on the industry expertise of its parent company, which furnishes a wide range of innovative and convenient online services. LINE PLUS Corporation is located in Seoul, Korea. For more information, please visithttp://www.nhncorp.com/nhnen/index.nhn .

About Gogolook
Gogolook, founded in 2012, was acquired by Naver Corp. in December, 2013 and joined ranks with one of the world’s most popular messaging apps, LINE, as a sister company. Gogolook has always aspired to create a global contact network of trust. It was the commitment to this visualization and the hopes of creating the ultimate calling experience that whoscall was developed as an unknown number identification and filtering app. whoscall received public praise from Google’s CEO Eric Schmidt and has been awarded multiple international accolades including the Google Best Innovation Award and BNext Award. whoscall has also been featured on TechCrunch and TechInAsia, amongst other global tech media outlets. whoscall currently services over 600 million users worldwide and identifies over 10 million calls daily.

19th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta in 2015


OFFICIAL STATEMENT FROM THE PHILIPPINE INTERNATIONAL HOT AIR BALLOON FIESTA (PIHABF) ORGANIZING COMMITTEE

The organizers of the longest running balloon event in Asia – the Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta (PIHABF): “A Weekend of Everything that Flies,” maintains its decision not to hold the 19th PIHABF this year, but instead, prepare for a bigger event scheduled for February 12-15, 2015.

Amidst reports of a balloon event taking place in Clark, Pampanga in April 2014, spearheaded by Mr. Ronnie Tiotuico of the Department of Tourism (DOT) Regional Office, the PIHABF Organizing Committee has issued the following statement:

Preparation for the Hot Air Balloon Fiesta is a major undertaking.

The decision not to hold a Fiesta this year was not undertaken lightly. From the perspective of the PIHABF organizers, our 2013 event (featuring more balloons than ever, the highly impressive Breilting Jet Acrobatic Team, and the myriad of other flying, ground and static events) would be a hard act to follow without allowing sufficient time to plan, prepare and book new and interesting activities.

We believe that by suspending the 2014 Hot Air Balloon Fiesta, allowing our organizing committee more time to secure a suitable venue for the fiesta and investing more time in planning, securing sponsorships and implementing enhancements, we can offer our public spectators a truly safe and world-class event in 2015.

The summer weather is not suitable in hot air balloon safety.

PIHABF will not be part of the April 2014 event in Clark, Pampanga. We will not participate in the planning, organization or staging of the event. We disclaim any association with the organization or management of the said event.
                                                                                                                                
Safety concerns raised by PIHABF pending approval of CAAP for ‘The Philippine International Friendship Balloon Festival 2014’

We hope that the organizers of the April 2014 event, headed by Mr. Ronnie Tiotuico, have carefully looked into the many safety requirements and issues involved in staging an event of this scale. PIHABF is concerned that the length of time allocated for them to learn the processes and preparations for this kind of activity is too short. We also hope they are not misrepresenting their expertise in implementing an airshow to prospective sponsors, participants and especially the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP).

The PIHABF organizers have worked hard to develop operational and safety procedures.  With an admirable safety record, we have built trust with event participants and other valued partners.  We value this reputation, built on a foundation of 20 years of experience. 
We recognize that the balloon fiesta is an activity that the international aviation community looks forward to.  Any untoward incident would impact on the good name of PIHABF organizers and damage the reputation of the Philippines.
We assure the public that we are already working hard on the planning and preparation for a bigger and even better 19th Philippine International Hot Air Balloon Fiesta in 2015.  We are excited for everyone to be a part of it.

January 9, 2014

Metro Magazine's Silver Anniversary Issue : Metro Body, with Miss Universe 2013 3rd Runner Up Ariella Arida

To kick off its 25th anniversary year, Metro is bringing its readers the boldest and most daring edition of its highly anticipated Metro Body Issue, where Miss Universe 2013 3rd Runner Up Ariella Arida sizzles on the cover in one of the season’s hottest trends.

This Saturday (January 11), get the chance to be part of her meet and greet plus autograph signing of the magazine at National Bookstore in Glorietta 1.
Ara looks fresher and fiercer than ever in tropical prints, divulging what she’s really like underneath it all—the title, the glamour, and the limelight. She opens up about life after the world’s most prestigious pageant, revealing things she’s never revealed before.

Joining Ara in this ultra exciting issue are today’s most talked about personalities in entertainment, modeling, and sports, alongside fresh faces whose stars will shine brighter, and some of the most standout names from Metro Body features past.

Among those that took on Metro’s challenge of baring their all in the truest sense of the word are the likes of Brent Javier, Carlos Agassi, Cristine Reyes, Dennis Trillo, Enrique Gil, Jake Letts, Janna Tee, Jason Abalos, JC de Vera, Jessica Yang, Joaco Cañas, John James Uy, Rafa Siguion-Reyna, Randy See, Raphael Robes, Rayver and Rodjun Cruz, Rufa Mae Quinto, Sam Concepcion, Sky Yang, Sunshine Cruz, Tom Rodriguez, Valerie Weigmann, Victor Basa, Vince Ferraren, the Viva Hot Babes, and Wendy Tabusalla—shown wearing only the must-have accessories from the Resort 2014 collection.

Metro also gives its readers a closer look into how to sport Resort 2014’s hottest trends, from nautical and white, to denim and tropical prints—carefully putting together the best selection of clothes, shoes, and accessories. Apart from all that, get tips on how to be a fresh-faced, glowing beauty with our tips for luminous skin, and take a closer look at the spectacular event that was, the Metrowear Icon: Francis Libiran gala.

The Metro January Issue is out in bookstores and newsstands nationwide for only P150.

Like Metro Magazine on Facebook (www.facebook.com/Metro.Magazine)
 and follow Metro on Twitter or Instagram (@MetroMagPH).

Don’t miss out on the chance to bear witness to some of the hottest stars featured in the Metro Body Issue in the flesh, including covergirl Ara Arida herself at Metro’s special meet and greet event this Saturday (January 11). 

Registration opens at 2:00pm.

The iPhone “phablet,” Apple’s newest product line to come out in the market this year

The iPhone “phablet,” Apple’s newest product line this year, is out in the market in May this year and iPhone 6, which belongs to a different and existing family of smartphones, will be launched in September this year.



THE iPhone 6, expected later this year, could be just 6mm thick, according to reports from South Korea and China. 

Until now, news about the upcoming model has focused on the size of the screen, which is expected to grow. But South Korean website ET News says that the handset will also get significantly slimmer. The latest model will appear much slimmer compared to the existing iPhone models.

The iPhone phablets are reportedly coming out with a bigger display measuring up to five inches, a report said.

The HKMG 28 nanometer, 64-bit A7 processor manufactured by Samsung and is currently used by iPhone 5S and 2013 iPad models will most likely be revamped or even completely replaced by a 20 nanometer processor made by TSMC.

Another report issued by a publication in South Korea called ET News announced that iPhone will debut in September. The latest model will appear much slimmer compared to the existing iPhone models.

It is assumed that the launch of iPhone phablets will certainly make the price of the iPhone 5s drop significantly. A report says prices might go down to $100 in May when the new product line debuts.

It can be recalled that several rumors came out last year about Apple’s plan of launching two new iPhones with bigger displays in 2014.

The Wall Street Journal released an article in September last year that said Apple is in the middle of calibrating iPhone designs with screens up to 6 inches.

This was eventually denied by KGI Securities analyst Ming-Chi Kuo who claimed that the company will most likely release a new model with bigger display measuring up to five inches only.

Bloomberg said the company would release a 4.7-inch and 5.5-inch iPhones in 2014.

Finally, the same C Technology website announced in December that iPhone 6 prototype with a 4.9-inch display is on its way to the market very soon.

Although all these can’t be confirmed at this time, what’s certain is that numerous reports have come out detailing Apple’s plan to release bigger iPhones this year to compete with similar gadgets in the market.

Star Cinema's jumpstart for 2014 - ‘Bride For Rent’ Movie with KimXi

‘Bride for Rent’ is the opening salvo of Star Cinema for 2014 with Kim Chiu and Xian Lim popularly known as KimXi as loveteam are back at each other’s arms.
Bride For Rent marks the much-awaited silver screen reunion of Kim and Xian who are arguably considered as one of the hottest blockbuster love-teams in the country today.

KimXi made a big success in the movie after their first movie team-up 'Bakit Hindi Ka Crush Ng Crush Mo' who gained more than P100 Million pesos.

The successful and blockbuster loveteam, Xiam and Kim are back on the silver screen via their latest romantic comedy as they deliver more “kilig.” The two are really fun and happy loveteam to share their working and friendship relationship.

FRESH from its critical and box-office triumph in the recently concluded Metro Manila Film Festival, Star Cinemas continues its 20th anniversary celebration as it opens 2014 with a bang with Bride For Rent – a romantic comedy starring Kim Chiu and Xian Lim.


'Bride for Rent' is very catchy title. Bride For Rent is a hilarious love story centered on Rocco Espiritu (Lim) and Rocky Espiritu (Chiu) who are both in desperate need of money. Rocco needs to get married to have access to his sizable trust fund while Rocky on the other hand is frantic for rent money lest her whole family gets evicted and homeless.

Rocco conspires with Rocky who agrees to act as his “pseudo wife” in exchange for a huge “talent fee.” A series of sidesplitting problems arise as Rocco and Rocky implement their deceitful plot. Would their plan work or would it backfire on them with the possibility of them developing actual feelings with each other?

Director Mae Cruz, Pilita Corales, Kim Chiu, Carmi Raymundo and Xiam Lim during the blogcon held at the Abs-Cbn /ELJ Building, Quezon City, January 8, 2013.
According to Direc May Cruz and writer Carmina Raymundo, Bride For Rent gets great collaboration between Kim and Xian. 

The film also features the grand comeback of Asia’s Queen Of Songs Pilita Corrales to the big-screen as she portrays a very special role.
Asia’s Queen Of Songs Pilita Corrales
Both film buffs and fans of the Kim-Xian love-team can look forward to an unforgettable and feel-good cinematic experience with Bride For Rent which is the perfect way to jumpstart the New Year.

Directed by box-office director Mae Czarina Cruz, whose most notable recent work is 2013’s smash hit She’s The One. Bride For Rent is showing in all cinemas nationwide starting January 15.

For more information and latest updates about “BRIDE FOR RENT” and other Star Cinema’s 20th anniversary movie offerings, 
simply visit www.StarCinema.com.ph,

More videos and updates coming soon, as I am now working on uploading :) 

January 8, 2014

"Viva Señor Jesus Nazareno!" Feast of Black Nazarene 2014

"Viva Señor Jesus Nazareno!"
The Feast of Black Nazarene, annual event every January 9th. It commemorates the 'Traslación' or Passage of life-sized, dark wooden statue of Jesus Christ through procession or transfer of the image to its present shrine in Quiapo Church, Manila.

Highlight of the celebration is the grand procession of sea of devotees from Quirino Grandstand at seven in the morning.
(Photo: Jim Guiao Punzalan)

The organizers said that an estimate of 12 million people are expected to join the activities for  the Feast of Black Nazarene.

MMDA releases Feast of Black Nazarene 2014 procession route, traffic rerouting scheme. Since the procession will not pass through the usual route, McArthur Bridge, which the Department of Public Works and Highways said is only fit to handle 20 tons or 10,000 people at any given time, the procession is expected to last 10 to 12 hours.

Here's a map detailing the parade route of the annual procession for the Feast of Black Nazarene 2014:

Parade route Feast of Black Nazarene 2014


Route from Quirino Grandstand (Luneta), right Katigbak Drive thru P. Burgos, left Taft Ave.(P.Burgos) thru McArthur Bridge, right Palanca, thru under Quezon Bridge, left Quezon Blvd., right Fraternal, right Vergara, left Duque de Alba, left Castillejos, left farnecio, right Arlegui, left Nepomuceno, left Aguila, right Carcer, right Hidalgo thru Plaza Del Carmen, left Bilibid Viejo thru Puyat, left Guzman, right Hidalgo, left Barbosa, right Globo de Oro thru under Quezon Bridge, right Palanca, right Villalobos thru Plaza Miranda to Quiapo Church.

Here are the Traffic Re-routing scheme for Feast of Black Nazarene 2014:

1. All vehicles coming from northern part of Manila intending to utilize the stretch of Bonifacio Drive (for Port Area offices) or right to A. Soriano to Magallanes Drive, right to P. Burgos, go straight to Lagusnilad to Taft Ave.

2. All vehicles coming from Taft Avenue northbound shall turn right at A. Villegas (Arroceros), right at Quezon Bridge to point of destination.

3. All vehicles coming from southern part of Manila intending to utilize the northbound of Roxas Blvd. from T. M. Kalaw to P. Burgos shall turn right to T.M. Kalaw to point of destination.

4. All vehicles coming from Quezon City using the stretch of Espana shall turn right P. Campa, left Andalucia, right Fuguso, left T. Mapua to point of destination.

5. All PUJ’s/light vehicles coming from Espana intending to proceed to South Pier Zone take the usual route using Quezon Bridge.

6. All vehicles coming from Divisoria intending to utilize the stretch of C. Recto Avenue shall turn left to T. Alonzo, right at Furguso, right at Andalucia to point of destination.

7. All vehicles coming from Legarda shall turn right Recto or left Mendiola to point of destination.

8. All heavy vehicles/cargo trucks coming from the south shall take Pres. Osmena, right Pres. Quirino to Nagtahan via A.H. Lacson to Capulong (vice-versa).

Some notes from MMDA:

1. All motorist intending to proceed to North of Manila or South of Manila shall advise to utilized the stretch of Lacson to Nagtahan (vice-versa) or to utilized the stretch of Road 10 to Roxas Blvd. (vice-versa) to point of destination.

2. All buses coming from southern part of Manila (Laguna and Cavite) utilizing Taft Ave. are not allowed to enter from 7:00 AM to 12:00 NN and allowed only up to Pres. Quirino as their turning point. #mmda 

THE Manila City Council has declared January 9, the Feast of the Black Nazarene, a special non-working holiday in the city.

A resolution passed on first reading by the council said the feast would highlight the “religious significance and cultural importance of the Feast of the Black Nazarene” and that there is truly a need to “preserve, enshrine, and promote its observance, commemoration, and celebration in the City of Manila.”

Councilor DJ Bagatsing who authored the ordinance, said that it is essentially sound for Manila to propose a local holiday on the Feast of Black Nazarene. 

“This would give loyal worshippers a better chance of engaging in this sacred tradition,” Councilor DJ Bagatsing added.

The city had earlier announced the suspension of classes on Thursday to spare students from being stranded because of the expected deluge of devotees. 

Barefoot devotees will again be allowed in trains, according to the Light Rail Transit Authority (LRTA). LRT rides will not be free and security inspections will continue. He said the number of LRT commuters doubles during the Feast of the Black Nazarene.

The traditional “pahalik” of the Black Nazarene had already started after the venerated image was transferred to Quirino Grandstand Monday evening.

The MyProperty.ph magazine maiden issue launched

Get Sold Corporation, a joint venture between Summit Media and Ringier AG, recently launched their first offline offering, a print version of the MyProperty.ph website, as part of the brand’s strategy to bring real estate information and listings closer to the public. According to general manager Butz de Castro, the free magazine is designed to emphasize how the online and offline experiences are connected, and aims to provide current and new users with “richer content that’s beyond ordinary projects and classifieds listings”.

“The MyProperty magazine was meant to complement our online product,” he said. “It is a major step forward in enabling property seekers, and all the industry’s players for that matter, to make better- informed decisions when it comes to searching for and purchasing property.”

The maiden issue of the quarterly glossy highlights top projects from various local property developers such as Vista Residences, Avida Land, and Grand Monaco. The Featured Stories section contains tips and human interest pieces, including an interview of several street performers in Bonifacio Global City, a yuppie’s guide to condo living, and FAQs about home buying. The magazine also offers a closer look at four booming real estate locations in the country – Pasay, CDO, and Tagaytay, and Pampanga – under Featured Communities.

“With Featured Communities aimed at letting the general public know where fast-track development is happening and Featured Stories on trends and tips, the website visitor – now the magazine reader – is given a heightened and more pleasurable experience in being informed of what choices are available to him at the most relevant time,” de Castro explained.

A classifieds segment presents buyers with listings complete with photos, property specs and seller information, as well as a property ID that can be used to search for the property on the MyProperty.ph website. Home owners looking to furnish and maintain their properties can fulfill their needs through the directory page.

As for what readers can expect in the future, de Castro said, “Along with more editorial content, more classified listings will be up for display, further boosting the chances of connecting the right property seeker with the right property seller.”

First copies of the maiden issue were handed out to attendees of the recently held “DRIVEN Pinoy Dream Property and Lifestyle Event 2013”. MyProperty.ph also plans on distributing it at upcoming real estate and property expos and placing it in major business establishments and event venues. A downloadable version of the magazine will soon be available on the website.

MyProperty.ph is the Philippines’ premier online real estate classifieds, which aims to bring property buyers and sellers together through an interactive and user-friendly platform. Visitors to the site can browse all types of real estate listings: from houses to condos, brand new to previously owned properties, and developer-owned to privately sold homes.
Get Sold Corporation is the classifieds company behind MyProperty.ph. It is a joint venture between Summit Media and Ringier AG.

Summit Media is the Philippines’ leading magazine publishing company—with 21 magazine titles under its belt, it has also expanded into digital media, outside-of-home media and consumer events. For the fourth straight year, Summit Media has also topped the nationwide TNS-Trends Newsstand Survey conducted in 2009. The company is also the co-owner of Jobstreet.com.ph, the country’s leading online jobs portal.

Ringier AG is a multinational media company with around 8,000 employees in 10 countries in Asia and in Central and Eastern Europe. Worldwide, Ringier publishes more than 120 newspapers and magazines and produces and markets more than 20 TV programmes. The company also holds considerable stakes in television and radio stations and operates about 80 websites and mobile platforms. It has eleven printing plants. Ringier is a fifth-generation family company, founded in 1833.


For more information on MyProperty.ph, call the Marketing Team at 451-8888 local 1126 or visit www.myproperty.ph.

PROFITABILITY IN A WELLNESS INVESTMENT

As the health and wellness sector grows into a billion-dollar industry, there are more opportunities to invest in wellness-related products and services. An even more profitable venture would be to invest in a luxury resort that provides a world-class health and wellness experience to the local and foreign market. Anya Resorts and Residences in Tagaytay offers investors this opportunity.

Anya is located along Buena Vista Hills Road in Silang, Tagaytay, in a secluded recessed property that is verdant with trees, gardens, and grassy groves. As the first truly world-class integrated luxury resort, spa, and residential development in the country, it is now the premier leisure and wellness destination in Tagaytay.

The name “Anya” comes from the Sanskrit word that means “boundless”, which expresses how Anya Resorts and Residences provides comfort, relaxation, wellness, and peace—without limits. Anya is designed for luxury, brand loyalty, market prominence, and profitability. It is one of the savviest investments one can make.

Investment offers

Investors have the opportunity to invest in a unit or suite type within Anya’s resort. They have the choice of getting a Guest Room or Studio; One Bedroom Suite; or Two-Bedroom Suite. It’s better to choose a unit/suite type based on how frequent you expect to use it. 

There are several advantages of investing in Anya. These include the following: high capital appreciation; liquidity; expert asset management; and the chance to provide a health and wellness vacation to family and friends. 

Being a branded, full-service, managed development, Anya Resorts and Residences is expected to have a quick, high-value appreciation in relation to other types of real estate. It also promises greater cash returns in comparison to other properties. 

Anya also keeps investors’ shares liquid so they get cash on an ongoing basis. This is possible thanks to Anya’s world-class facilities that assure a growing client base among wellness travelers. For investors, it’s like earning cash while they sleep. 

Global experts are assigned the task of managing Anya’s assets. Through their efforts, the guesswork, anxiety, and stress are taken off investors’ hands. They can instead focus on their main businesses and wait for their investment to grow. 

Through Anya, investors are also able to provide their families a gorgeous second home that comes with world-class resort and spa amenities. Few investments can boast of including health and wellness in its ROI. 

Investors also become automatic co-owners of the property and members of Anya Elite, a program of exclusive luxury privileges that includes the right to use other luxury properties that Anya is partnered with. 

Expert branding and marketing

It’s not enough to have a premier location or a top-notch development. This must be supported with a robust marketing strategy and effective branding. Anya’s management team has the experience in marketing international luxury hotels and restaurants and will market the property strategically combining a domestic, regional, and global reach. 

The team has on hand large databases, extensive corporate and OTA relationships, as well as collaboration and partnerships with other luxury properties and brands—all of which factor into the wide reach and effectiveness of their marketing efforts.

In many ways, Anya’s facilities and its breath-taking design “market themselves”. The best designers in the luxury resort sector collaborated to create what Anya is today—these designers include firms such as Manny Samson and Associates who are famous for St. Regis, Four Seasons, and the Ritz Carlton. 

Master planning and landscaping was undertaken by Eco Plan, one of the best landscape architects and landscapers in the world. Among Eco Plan’s laurels is Peninsula Papagayo in Costa Rica for Four Seasons. JYAA Architects designed Anya’s structures in cooperation with BLUE. JCL, the present managers of Manila’s Fairmont and Raffles, is also handling Anya. 

They are all responsible for making Anya’s international standard interiors, viewing decks and terraces, private gardens, lawns, streams, restaurants and its world-class spa. Together, they designed Anya with meticulous attention to aesthetic detail, highly personalized service, as well as international food, beverage, spa, and fitness facilities.

The commitment of Anya’s management team is such that it set aside a pre-opening budget in excess of Php300 million just for 56 rooms. It’s bold statement that ensures high returns from opening day. 

Anya is easily the Philippines first luxury wellness resort brand. While establishing its branding and reputation, Anya will align itself with three other leading domestic and international brands to create a dining, wellness, and luxury experience unlike anything else in the country. 

For more information about Anya Resorts and Residences and its investment opportunities,
please go to their website at www.anyainvestments.com;
or email ask@anyainvestment.com or call 0917-888 ANYA (2692).

Anya Resort and Residences is developed and managed by Roxaco Land Corp., the property development arm of Roxas and Company Inc. Roxaco Land Corp. is also the developer of projects like Fuego Hotel chains and several subdivisions in Batangas and Cavite since 1988.

The Bootleg Beatles Live in Manila

The Bootleg Beatles – The World’s Premier Beatle Band Live in Manila on January 17, 2014, 8pm at the PICC Plenary Hall, CCP Complex, Pasay City. 

Tickets now available atticketworld.com.ph/thebootlegbeatles

The Bootleg Beatles will also be at the SMX Convention Center Davao on January 18, 2014 and at Solaire Resort on January 19, 2014. 

The Bootleg Beatles Live at Solaire Tickets now available at ticketworld.com.ph/thebootlegbeatlessolaire

Ticket Prices: (PICC Plenary Hall)
Price Zone 1: P4,897.40
Price Zone 2: P3,855.40
Price Zone 3: P3,230.20
Price Zone 4: P2,605
Price Zone 5: P1,042
Price Zone 6: P625.20

Buy your The Bootleg Beatles Live at PICC Plenary Hall Tickets now at ticketworld.com.ph/thebootlegbeatles

Ticket Prices: (SMX Convention Center Davao)
Silver – P1,500
General Admission – P700

Tickets available at SM Ticket Outlets or visit smtickets.com

Ticket Prices: (Solaire Resort)
Price Zone 1 – P4,941
Price Zone 2 – P3,843
Price Zone 3 – P3,294

More Connections, More Fun! P14 Base Fare Sale, perfect for your immediate travels through AirAsia Zest

It's more fun in the Philippines! AirAsia Zest will really make everyone fly this year!

To kick-off your 2014, AirAsia is giving you P14 Base Fare Sale, perfect for your immediate travels!

Fly to/from Manila (NAIA Terminal 4), Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Kalibo (Boracay), Puerto Princesa and Tagbilaran (Bohol) from as low as P368 or fly international to Miri, Kota Kinabalu, Kuala Lumpur & Macau from as low as P474 – everything’s all-in! 

You can also fly to/from Cebu (Mactan International Airport), Cagayan de Oro, Davao and Puerto Princesa from as low as P569 or overseas to Kota Kinabalu and Kuala Lumpur from as low as P474 all-in fares!

Booking Period: Now till 19 January 2014
Travel Period: Now till 31 March 2014

Book your P14-seats at: 
-http://bit.ly/1lLOjVy (Pay online through major credit banks using Dragonpay or cash via payment partners: 7-Eleven, Bayad Center and Cebuana Lhuillier)

-AirAsia and AirAsia Zest Call Center (+632 742 2742)

-AirAsia Travel & Service Center (SM Mall of Asia, SM North Edsa – The Block, Gaisano Mall Davao and Tune Hotels Angeles)

-AirAsia Zest Sales Offices (NAIA Terminal 4, Mactan Cebu International Airport, & D’ Mall Boracay Kalibo)

-AirAsia & AirAsia Zest Accredited Travel Agencies

So if you’re looking for promo fares for impulsive and on-the-go travellers like you, there’s no other way but to go the AirAsia Zest way!

January 7, 2014

Philippines in UK’s Rough Guides top 10 countries to see in 2014

It's more fun in the Philippines!

Philippines is among the Top 10 Countries worldwide to visit this 2014, according to British travel guidebook Rough Guides.

The Philippines made it to the 10th place along with other beautiful and culturally-rich countries. 
Boracay Photo: Myrns Roman 
Rough Guides 2014 edition, cited Philippines’ natural places that are “not to miss” which include the islands of Boracay, the limestone islands El Nido in Palawan, the coasts of Coron that hidesbeautiful beaches and pristine mountain lakes, and Puerto Gallera.

The Rough Guides, known for its travel references, has also recommended a must-visit in Chocolate Hills in Bohol, despite being partly damaged by the 7.2-magnitude earthquake the struck the province last year. It also recommended to visitors to see the tiny primate Tarsiers in the region.

“Soak up the bizarre landscape of Bohol’s iconic Chocolate Hills, conical brown-green mounds said to be the calcified tears of a broken-hearted giant,” Rough Guides said.

Rough Guides also suggest to tourists to also try to explore the country’s beautiful mountains and the majestic top views they offier, including the perfectly-coned Mt. Mayon and mountain lakes in Mt. Pinatubo. Rough Guide describes the crystal-clear waters of Apo Reef Marine Natural Park in Mindoro as a “scuba diver’s dream.”

Aside from places, tourist should also explore the traditions and colorful festivals in the country like the Ati-Atihan Festival on Panay to see the “indigenous dress and learn tribal dances,” the travel advisor said, adding that if one gets exhausted from the heat of the sun, a tall glass of Halo-halo, a local sweet icy dessert, will quench tourist’ thirst.

Rough Guides also encouraged European travelers to visit the Philippines, citing direct flights from London to Manila.

“New direct flights from London to Manila mean that it’s now easier to get there from the UK,” it said.

Other countries in Rough Guides’ Top 10 countries to visit in 2014 are Georgia in Central Asia, Turkey, Macedonia, Japan, Rwarna, Ethiopia, Brazil, Bulgaria and Madagascar.

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